Nairobi, Kenya —Former Kenyan Prime Minister Raila Odinga, who had been undergoing treatment in India, passed away on Wednesday due to cardiac arrest.
According to highly placed sources, the veteran politician suffered a cardiac arrest during morning walk. He was taken to Devamatha Hospital in Koothattukulam where he was pronounced dead.
A prominent figure in Kenyan politics, 80-year-old Raila held the post of Prime Minister from 2008 to 2013. His long career is marked by five campaigns for the presidency—in 1997, 2007, 2013, 2017, and 2022—all of which ended without success.
Last weekend, Siaya Senator Dr. Oburu Oginga confirmed that Raila was recuperating and resting in India, dismissing claims that the ODM leader was critically ill.
Speaking to journalists in Ugunja, Oburu urged Kenyans to ignore rumours being peddled by political opponents seeking to create panic over Raila’s health.
“I want to take this opportunity to clarify this: there have been a lot of rumours about our party leader, Raila Odinga, that he is very sick or dying. But I want to tell you that he is fine — he was only a little indisposed and is now resting and recuperating,” said Oburu.
Raila Resting in India, Not the US or Dubai
Oburu revealed that Raila, 79, travelled to India for medical rest and routine treatment, and not to the United States or Dubai as alleged by a section of political bloggers and leaders.
“He is in India; people should not say they do not know where he is. He is not in the US or Dubai as alleged by some,” Oburu added, assuring Kenyans that the ODM leader would return to the country soon to resume his political duties.
ODM Party Denies Health Scare Rumours
The statement came a week after the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) dismissed viral claims that Raila was battling serious health complications.
In an official communication, the party clarified that the Azimio la Umoja leader had travelled abroad for a private mission and that if he were unwell, he would have publicly shared the information as he has done in the past.
“Raila Odinga has always been open about his health. If he was unwell, he would have informed Kenyans himself,” the ODM statement read in part.
Raila Expected to Resume Duties
According to Oburu, Raila was expected back in Kenya soon to continue his engagements under the Azimio coalition, as the opposition prepares for upcoming national dialogues and party activities.
